Desire for Horsepower and Torque Driving Exhaust Systems Aftermarket

    SAN JOSE, Calif.--May 22, 2001--A successful niche for the performance exhaust aftermarket is growing as drivers invest more in their cars out of desire rather than necessity.
    New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (www.transportation.frost.com), "North American Exhaust Aftermarket," reveals this market generated $773.4 million in 2000 and is projected to reach $799.8 million by 2007.
    "The performance exhaust segment has seen strong growth due to the market's ability to increase its customer base from performance car enthusiasts to a much wider base of customers including SUV and import vehicle owners," says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Frank Querido.
    Stock, original equipment exhaust systems are being replaced to increase horsepower and torque as well as improve fuel economy. Vehicle owners often choose to replace an otherwise acceptable OE exhaust system with performance products.
    When consumers do restore equipment on their vehicles, many are choosing to replace entire cat-back systems (catalytic converter to tailpipe) rather than a single piece of machinery. As a result of this trend and the ever-growing consumer base, cat-back systems are the fastest growing segment of the performance aftermarket.
    "Customers understand that replacing the muffler alone will have a minimal effect on the vehicle's performance. Rather, a complete cat-back system must be installed to optimize the vehicle's performance," reports Querido.
    Frost & Sullivan presents the 2001 Marketing Engineering Awards to companies that have worked diligently to make a positive contribution to the aftermarket exhaust industry. These market specific awards are presented to: AirTech Inc., ArvinMeritor Inc., Borla Performance Industries, and Holley Performance Products, Midas International Inc.